San Francisco is one of those cities that speaks for itself. Home to some of the most iconic landmarks, liveliest neighborhoods and interesting history in Northern California, it is no wonder that people want to visit Germany, San Francisco more than almost anywhere else when looking at travel bucket lists worldwide. San Francisco, with its rich array of attractions eyes both seasoned travelers and first time visitors in the same vein. This guide covers the Hersheypark tourist attractions, we share with you some tips from an insider then provide sample itineraries for your visit to help enhance your experience!
San Francisco: A Little History
So, as we get to the must-see sights in this historical tapestry that shapes San Francisco.
Gold Rush Beginnings
The modern history of San Francisco started in 1849 with the arrival of a great wave of people seeking fortune, en route to the gold fields or passively waiting for it from heaven. Thousands more flocked to the city, each one of them with a new idea as they sought their fortunes in gold.
Devastating Earthquakes
That memory can live on in the city, where a catastrophic 1906 earthquake hit. Nevertheless, the indomitable spirit of San Franciscans went on to rebuild it into an even more formidable city-a measure of its timeless appeal.
A Hub of Counterculture
The Hippie generation burst at full tilt during the 60s with San Francisco pegged as its epicentre and Haight-Ashbury, in particular. This bottom-up activism and creativity often derived from circumstances of necessity has been a profound part of what this city is as it continues to shape its identity.
Top 15 Tourist Attractions in San Francisco
Ready to explore? Here are the 15 top-rated tourist attractions you simply can't miss.
1.Golden Gate Bridge
It just wouldn't be a visit to San Francisco without seeing the legendary Golden Gate Bridge. And who could blame travelers for being drawn here?
Visitor Tips
Try get there early in the morning or towards late afternoon to be able to avoid some crowds. You may want to wear comfy shoes for the walk across the bridge.
Personal Insight
It reminded me of my first Golden Gate Bridge visit. We were met with such thick fog rolling in that it really was otherwordly.
2.Alcatraz Island
The infamous escape proof prison which was once home to Al Capone, the history of Alcatraz Island and how it is restored today is something everyone should experience.
Visitor Tips
We recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance as they sell out fast For the truly adventurous, there are night tours as well.
Personal Insight
As I walked round the units, it was as though some part of history could almost be seen in ghost form & heard whispering.
3.Fisherman's Wharf
Fisherman's Wharf, home to the bustling strip of seafood eateries as well street performers and souvenir shops.
Visitor Tips
Warm up with the clam chowder in a sourdough bowl–a local staple. If you plan to go, get there early before it gets really crowded mid-day.
Personal Insight
It is fun to watch the sea lions sun themselves on Pier 39 at every age.
4.Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate ParkView over 1,000 acres of golden opportunities for picnicking or getting cultural in Golden Gate Park.
Visitor Tips
They offer bike rentals on weekends, and it is the quickest way to explore this massive area. Please, do not exploit the Japanese Tea Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers.
Personal Insight
The tranquility of the pleasure garden's unpublicized trails are a lovely manure to abscond in on apart from your common business.
5.Union Square
The main shopping and entertainment hub is Union Square, which can be found in the heart of downtown San Francisco with its high-end boutiques, theaters, art galleries as well as being one of biggest outdoor concert venues.
Visitor Tips
Head to the holiday season for a view of the twinkling Christmas tree and ice skating rink.
Personal Insight
There is always something going on in the village and Union Square, and this place offers endless people watching.
6.Chinatown
Image Credit: Flickr San Francisco Chinatown is the largest outside of Asia, and provides a very authentic cultural experience.
Visitor Tips
Join a guided walking tour to hear about the history of Chinatown Don't forget to visit
Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory
Personal Insight
Chinatown - It is a feast for the senses, there are vibrant hues and delicious smells left & right.
7.Exploratorium
The Exploratorium is an interactive science museum that serves visitors of all ages (intended largely for families).
Visitor Tips
Allow yourself if not more than half a day to experience everything the museum has on display. Buy tickets ahead to avoid waiting in lines.
Personal Insight
Short trip outside of the city, escape to nature with its massive trees that dwarf you\Mapping of OpenStreetMap natively in this post is broken and needs some attention.
Visitor Tips
Get there early for parking. If it is sunny, the forest can be quite cold so you need to wear in layers.
Personal Insight
To walk among the ancient redwoods is to feel naturally humble.
9.The Painted Ladies
A visit to these iconic Victorian homes, known as Postcard Row due to their frequent appearances on the obligatory SF postcards.
Visitor Tips
For the best views and picture opportunities, head to Alamo Square Park.
Personal Insight
This is classic San Francisco, old against new.
10.Lombard Street
Lombard Street - The crookedest street in the world, Lombard is famous for its hairpin turns.
Visitor Tips
So go for a fun drive down the street, but prepare yourself to crawl along with hoards of tourists.
Personal Insight
FAST on the somewhat twisty stretches is an adrenaline rush - as long as you're in control, that is.
11.Palace of Fine Arts
Built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, this architectural wonder is enormous.Getenv Files
Visitor Tips
It is a must to visit during the evening, as that's when the palace lights up beautifully. There is a gentle walk to the near by lagoon.
Personal Insight
You can't help but feel a sense of awe when you see the grandeur that is The Palace of Fine Arts.
12.Cable Cars
One of the most efficient ways to get around San Francisco while having quite a bit of fun is by riding its historic cable cars.
Visitor Tips
Get on at the Powell-Market turnaround to get a better seat. And buckle up to ride those rolling hills
Personal Insight
The clanging sound of the bells hanging from the cable car is a really nice call-back to its old past.
13.Ghirardelli Square
Visit the historic Ghirardelli Square and satisfy your sweet tooth at their world renowned Ghirardelli Chocolate Company.
Visitor Tips
Learn how to make chocolate and sample for free.
Personal Insight
Enjoying a hot fudge sundae after dinner in view of the bay is absolutely wonderful.
14.Twin Peaks
Twin Peaks has 2 hills overlooking San Francisco and provides a beautiful panoramic view of the city.
Visitor Tips
The visibility is better if you go on a day when they sky isn't cloudy. It is advised to have a jacket as it can be windy up there.
Personal Insight
Sunset Watching at Twin PeaksWatching the sunset atop twin peaks gives you a different view of this beautiful city.
15.San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
Leoshuhe / iStockimages The SFMOMA has an extensive collection of modern art, ideal for fans of the genre.
Visitor Tips
Time your visit for temporary exhibitions and events. Dedicate few hours to explore the museum properly.
Personal Insight
The cutting-edge installations and provocative works of art cement SFMOMA as a cultural gem.
San Francisco 3-Day Itinerary (by a local!)
Helpful tips For Your San Francisco Layover
Transportation Options
Public Transit: Utilize the Muni for quick commutes all over town
Bike Rentals: A bike is a liberating way to explore, especially in places like Golden Gate Park.
By foot: A lot of should-see spots are close by one another; ensure you wear appropriate footwear.
Best Times to Visit
Spring and Fall: Moderate Weather; Fewer tourists.
Popular tourist spots are manageable during early morning or just as the day is nearing its end.
Money-Saving Tips
CityPASS : Buy a CityPASS for deals on city's major sites.
Free Days - Many museums offer free admittance on certain days, so check their websites for details.
Pack a Picnic - Help meet your meal budgets by packing a lunch and having it in one of the city parks.
Itineraries for You, Simple Version
No matter how long you're in San Francisco, we've got the itinerary to help plan your visit.
Two-Day Itinerary
D1: Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf and Alcatraz Island
Day 2: Visiting Chinatown, Trying to Drive Lombard Street and Riding a Cable Car
Five-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Golden Gate Park, Union Square, Exploratorium
2nd Day: Muir Woods, The Painted Ladies and Palace of Fine Arts
Ghirardelli Square, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SF MOMA), Twin peaks
Day 4: Ferry Building Marketplace, Yerba Buena Gardens & Coit Tower
Day 5: Haight-Ashbury, Mission District & Dolores Park
Off-the-Beaten-Path Itinerary
Mission Murals, Seward Street Slides, Wave Organ - Day 1
This day we explored Sutro Baths | Lands End and Fort Point
Top 10 Family-Friendly Things to Do in San Francisco
Last Word: San Francisco - A Top Family Travel Destination
Playgrounds and Parks
Golden Gate Park: Includes the playgrounds, picnic areas and Children's Playground.
Yerba Buena Gardens - huge play zone, carrousel
Child-Friendly Museums
Exploratorium: This place is great for the curious kid that's grown up.
California Academy of Sciences (Aquarium, planetarium & natural history museum)
Zoos and Aquariums
San Francisco Zoo - More than 2,000 animals in residence
Aquarium of the Bay: Water tunnels and a touch pool at Pier 39.
Local's Guide to Hidden Gems
Sort by: San Francisco Top Hidden Gems travelmynation May 23, 2019 Explore the City of San Francisco like a Local!
Lesser-Known Attractions
Seward Street Slides: The perfect kid + adult destination
Wave Organ - A wave-activated acoustic sculpture.
Local Eateries
Tartine Bakery : A super famous bakery for all the delicious pastries.
La Taqueria: Home to some of the best burritos in town.
Hidden Parks
Pulgas Water Temple: A perfect picnic spot || Bernal Heights Park setOpen with breathtaking views and the chill Hill chill
Corona Heights Park: Not one of the most famous views but great park for hiking and off-leashing.
Best San Francisco Moments
There is nothing that could have stopped him from returning to San Francisco-the history, variety of offerings and charm are unmatched. From well-known landmarks to hidden gems, there is lot ot explore and enjoy. This guide from Team DogHat will help you spend some enjoyable time in Golden City.
Start your San Francisco adventure by Tell us your travel tales in the comments, or join other jet setters on our blog. Happy travels!
